SFIA launches SOMS 2026 research contest; invites students, scientists to submit agri-input studies

New Delhi: The Soluble Fertilizer Industry Association (SFIA) on Monday said it has launched the second edition of its research contest, inviting scientists, researchers and students from the academic community to submit work advancing plant nutrition and speciality agri-inputs.

The contest spans a wide range of subjects – from agronomic research on SOMS (Soluble & Organic fertilisers, micronutrients and stimulants) as an integrated nutrient management package, to comparative performance studies of SOMS inputs against conventional subsidised fertilisers, evaluating crop response, soil health impacts, nutrient use efficiency, and economic viability.

Entries may also cover manufacturing processes and technological advancements to improve efficiency and scalability, testing methodologies to support quality assurance and regulatory compliance, and soil health research – particularly pH management, alkalinity correction and nutrient availability in difficult soil conditions.

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The competition will conclude with the "Thesis Showdown," the grand finale to be held at the Speciality Fertilizer Summit – SOMS 2026 in Ahmedabad on July 2. The top three presentations will receive cash prizes, SFIA said in a statement.

In the previous edition of the contest, research on ammonia recovery from wastewater for use as a soluble fertiliser and the use of robotics in spraying systems emerged as standout entries, with researchers receiving cash incentives for their work.